Board authorizes surveyor to clear county right-of-way, seek removal of vehicles blocking access to Robert Miller drain

The Clinton County drainage board authorized the county surveyor to seek removal of vehicles and debris from a county road right-of-way used to access the Robert Miller drain, after survey staff reported the right-of-way had become a dumping ground and impeded utility and drainage work.

Surveyor staff reported that the roadbed in question remains county right-of-way but is obstructed by abandoned vehicles and debris, limiting access for inspection and maintenance of a recently installed riser. “It is still county property. So just looking for your thoughts on whether we want to engage in this or not,” a staff member said; the board instructed staff to proceed and granted permission for the surveyor to pursue removal.

Board members noted the area contains utilities, a culvert and fiber crossings that need periodic access and that the county’s authority extends approximately 75 feet on either side of the riser for drain-related work. The surveyor asked whether the drainage board or county commissioners should lead enforcement; the board agreed the surveyor could act on the drainage board’s behalf.

A motion and second were made to authorize the surveyor to pursue clearing the easement and the board confirmed the action would proceed.